Passengers urged to 'check before you travel' as strike hits north west trains

Daria Neklesa

Train users are urged to check before they travel today as strike hits services across the north west.

The strike affects services provided by Northern and Mersey Rail in the north west and services are expected to be severely disrupted as members of the RMT strike over the introduction of driver Only Operation.

Rail operator, Northern, has told commuters that less than half of their trains will be in service during the day of industrial action on Monday 13 March.

The company has warned passengers to prepare for "extremely busy" trains, to allow extra time to travel and to consider whether their journey is necessary.

The train operator expects to run around 980 services across their entire network - around 40% of their usual service.

Services are not expected to start before 7am and will be winding down between 5-7pm.

A spokesman for Northern said: " Northern is doing everything it can to keep people on the move during the strike action planned for 13 March.

"We will provide a limited number of train services. The services we will provide are based on the availability and location of Northern employees who are trained conductors. Wherever possible, we are also focussing services on our busiest routes into major towns and cities.

"We expect these services will be extremely busy. Please give yourself extra time to travel and consider whether your journey is necessary.

"Look out for our people across the network to help you plan your journey and answer any questions you might have.